I have explained some wedding rituals as I have written about them. The explanation will be in italics.

The wedding day festivities transitioned seamlessly into bhoomada oota - a lunch setting which gets intimate between the couples as their first shared meal from the same plate (aka banana leaf). The couples are supposed to feed each other and sometimes the relatives also tease and force the couple to share the same piece of sweet or something else like almost kissing. It is a fun lunch for the family and a lot of times quite embarrassing for the couples especially in arranged marriages where the couples are not totally comfortable with each other yet. 

This is how bhoomada oota is arranged:

Bhargav and Sanju were seated together, their meals served on an expansive banana leaf. This special moment, meant for the newlyweds to feed each other, became an endearing spectacle for all. As Bhargav tenderly fed Sanju, her cheeks blossomed with a shy rose hue, clearly embarrassed by the intimate gesture before a crowd of elders and family. Noticing Sanju's discomfort, Vijay, Ragini, and Raghav decided to lighten the mood with their playful banter.

Ragini leaned in, a teasing sparkle in his eyes, "Oh look, Sanju, seems like Bhargav has found his true calling in life—becoming the world's most attentive husband!" Vijay, with a gentle laugh, added, "Sanju, you must be the only bride who gets a five-star meal service right at the wedding! Bhargav, make sure you're not setting the bar too high for the rest of us husbands here."

Raghav chimed in with a grin, "I thought Anna was all about boardroom dominance, but here he is, excelling in culinary affection! Sanju, you've truly brought out the best in him." Their words, filled with warmth and jest, helped Sanju feel a bit more at ease, her initial embarrassment melting into a sense of belonging.

Once lunch was complete it was now time for Sanju's send off (like vidai in north india). In Karnataka, the send-off ceremony for the bride holds a unique tradition. It begins with a ritual akin to godh bharai, where the bride is lavished with gifts such as sarees, jewelry, grains, and coconuts, which she gathers in the pallu of her saree like a precious bundle. Following this, the elders from the groom's family line up, ready to participate in a meaningful ceremony. The bride's parents guide her to sit momentarily on the laps of each elder couple in succession. This act symbolizes handing over their cherished daughter, now adorned with gifts and blessings, into the care of her new family. The procession culminates with the bride sitting on the laps of her husband's closest relatives, including his grandparents and parents, and finally, her husband. At this juncture, an aarti is performed for the couple, signifying the groom's lifelong commitment to shoulder the responsibilities and joys of his bride and their future together. This moment, steeped in emotion and tradition, often brings tears to the eyes of all present, marking the bride's formal transition into her husband's family. The overwhelming emotion shared by both the bride's and groom's families highlights the depth of the bond being formed, making it one of the most touching and heartfelt moments of the wedding.

During the ceremony, Sanju experiences a whirlwind of emotions as she is gently placed on the laps of Lakshmi Narasimha and then Radha Krishna. Each moment is filled with tears and comforting reassurances that everything will be alright. The ritual progresses, and Vijay and Ragini assist Sanju onto Bhargav's lap. Bhargav is taken aback by her tiny and delicate presence sitting on him. At this juncture, Sanju's emotions overflow, deeply missing the presence of her own parents in such a significant moment. Despite the comforting words from Bhargav's family, her tears do not cease. Observing this, Bhargav, in an attempt to distract her and also being highly distracted himself with the beauty in his arms, lightly pinches her at the waist (something that he has been wanting to do for a while now), a place untouched before for Sanju, causing her to momentarily pause in shock, her tears halting. As Sanju momentarily halted her tears, Lakshmi, with a gentle teasing tone, remarked, "Ah, so the tears stop at Bhargav's touch. It seems our Sanju was more eager for her husband's embrace than saddened by the farewell."Radha, joining in with a soft chuckle, added, "Truly, it appears that the comfort of Bhargav's lap is all our Sanju needs to find solace."Sanju, caught in the whirlwind of teasing and the unexpected gesture from Bhargav, blushed a deep shade of red. With her voice barely above a whisper and her eyes darting away in shyness, she muttered, "No, it's not like that..." Her protests were met with affectionate laughter and knowing smiles from Lakshmi and Radha, enveloping her in a warm, familial embrace of jest and joy and Bhargav hugs her tighter. It leaves Sanju flushed with embarrassment, her whole face turning a deep shade of red as she shyly denies their teasing.Observing the delicate pink blush spreading to her ears, Bhargav smiled in the influence he had over Sanju's body and her reactions. The anticipation of deepening their connection and having his ways with her tonight filled him with a mix of excitement and eagerness, her untouched innocence only heightening his intrigue. Catching Bhargav's sharp glance, Vijay quickly picked up on his friend's growing discomfort. With a nod of understanding, Vijay and Ragini promptly concluded the couple's aarti ceremony.
Sanju, accompanied by Ragini, retreats to a temporary room to slip into the saree and adornments selected by Radha, preparing for her formal entrance into their home alongside Bhargav. Once ready, she steps out of the matrimonial venue, where Bhargav, now refreshed and accompanied by Vijay and Raghav, eagerly awaits his bride. Clad in a splendid royal blue saree with gold and red zari borders, Sanju appears as if she's a manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi herself, radiant under the evening sun's soft glow. Bhargav finds himself spellbound, captivated by her luminous skin and divine aura.

Sanju, scanning the surroundings for a vehicle, seemed perplexed, prompting quizzical looks from everyone around. Raghav inquired, "Looking for something, Vaini?" Her continuous scanning led Bhargav to frustration and anger, mistaking her actions as her already showing her status and being disrespectful to his brother which he can't tolerate more than her being a gold digger. Grasping her shoulder with a firmness that made Sanju flinch, he demanded, "Why aren't you answering my brother?" It was the first time Sanju really heard Bhargav speak—his tone was stern, his grip firm, eliciting a sharp reaction from her. "He wasn't speaking to me right?" she responded, her eyes glistening slightly. Raghav clarified, "I was indeed asking you, Vaini. What are you searching for?" Confused, Sanju inquired, "My name is Sanju not Vaini? I was looking for the vehicle to take us to your home." The group couldn't help but laugh at her misunderstanding. Raghav, trying to contain his amusement, corrected her gently, "Vaini means the wife of 'Anna'. We don't need a vehicle; We can walk home." Sanju, still puzzled, replied, "In our terms, 'Anna's wife' is called Attige. Sorry I did not realize you were talking to me. So, we're walking to our home?" Raghav, amused, explained, "Yes, we're walking. By the way, what do you think that building is?" Sanju, ready for the walk, answered, "I'm prepared to walk. That building? It looks like a grand palace themed wedding hall." The revelation left Raghav and the others speechless.

Bhargav led the way, with the family trailing behind. Observing Sanju lagging slightly, Raghav intervened, "Anna, either hold Vaini's hand or drape your arm around her shoulder as you walk." Bhargav glanced back, noting Sanju's hesitance. He extended his hand, and despite Sanju's apprehension, mistaking his gesture for anger, she placed her hand in his. Together, they approached the grand entrance. There, Lakshmi and Radha greeted them with beaming smiles, a silver pot brimming with rice and topped with a jaggery cube placed before the doorway. "Pause here," they directed, prompting Sanju to nudge the pot forward with her right foot, symbolically entering the house alongside Bhargav amidst a cascade of rose petals and the harmonious sound of aarti, signifying their warm welcome. It was then that Sanju, absorbing the opulent surroundings, realized this was not a marriage hall but Bhargav's residence. She was awestruck, scarcely believing the scale and grandeur of the place she was to call home.

Following Lakshmi's guidance, Sanju lit a lamp before the newly placed idols of Shri Ram and Sita in the prayer room, overwhelmed with emotion. Tears welled in her eyes as she embraced her mother-in-law, expressing heartfelt gratitude, "Thank you, Amma. This means everything to me." Together, the newlyweds sought blessings from the family, engaging in playful post-wedding rituals such as the ring search in a pot of milk and flowers, and the flower ball catch.

In a tender moment, Ashok Rao approached Bhargav with a gift, explaining, "We missed the var pooja, so I wanted to offer this now. Please accept this modest gift, a token from your new grandfather." Bhargav, visibly moved, reassured Ashok, "Tatha, the value of a gift lies not in its price but in the love with which it's given. This is invaluable to me, my first gift from you."

Then, Sanju, slowly, presented Bhargav with a box. Confused at first, Bhargav was touched when she explained, "Since we didn't have an engagement, I wanted you to have this." Opening the box and seeing its contents, Bhargav initially handed it back, causing Sanju to feel slighted, although she didn't voice her disappointment. Observing his action, the family showed their displeasure at Bhargav's reaction. Understanding the misunderstanding, Bhargav invited, "Would you place it on me?" Extending his hand, Sanju complied, her hands shaking as she slid the ring onto his finger. The ring complemented Bhargav perfectly, and while Sanju's joy was evident, Bhargav found himself appreciating the gift more than he expected.

In a reciprocal gesture, Radha handed Bhargav a ring to place on Sanju. He did so, adding another layer to their growing bond. 

As the evening wound down, the family settled into a comfortable lull, with dinner approaching and no grand reception planned, in keeping with the intimate nature of the wedding. Sanju slipped into a simpler saree, spending joyful moments playing with the children from the orphanage, leaving Bhargav's family touched by her kindness. Following a heartfelt dinner, Parimala and the children bid their farewells, departing in a vehicle arranged by Lakshmi, leaving Sanju promising tearful goodbyes and vows to visit soon.

The night's preparations began as Sanju was escorted to a guest room to ready herself for the evening ahead. Ragini tenderly removed the floral adornments from Sanju's hair, brushing and braiding it with care. After Sanju refreshed herself, Ragini presented her with the night's attire—a saree of such delicate and translucent fabric that Sanju felt both awed and self-conscious. The arrival of Radha and Lakshmi only heightened her discomfort, to which Radha gently encouraged, "It's time to dress in the outfit we've chosen for you, Sanju." Sanju, holding the blouse Ragini gave her, asked in confusion, "Akka, where is the rest of this blouse?" To which Ragini replied with a smile, "No, Sanju, that's the entire blouse." After donning the petticoat and attempting to secure the blouse, Sanju found herself struggling with the bow at the back. Feeling out of her depth, she called out, "Akka, could you help me with this?" Ragini quickly assisted, tying the bow neatly and exiting before Sanju could ask her any questions.

However, staring at herself in the mirror, Sanju felt a mix of shock and unease, unsure how to carry such attire. Remaining secluded in the bathroom longer than expected, Radha and Lakshmi exchanged concerned glances. "Sanju, come out, dear. Let's help you with the saree," Radha encouraged. Emerging tentatively, Sanju wrapped herself in a towel, seeking modesty. As Ragini began draping the saree, Sanju hesitantly inquired if she could opt for a different blouse, fearing a mistake in its make. "No, dear, it's precisely tailored for tonight's significance," Radha gently explained, understanding Sanju's apprehension yet emphasizing the attire's role in the night's traditions.

Blouse front and back, Saree:

Perplexed about the rituals necessitating such revealing scandalous clothing but unwilling to voice further objections, Sanju acquiesced, requesting only a longer pallu for comfort. Once adorned, the women admired Sanju's transformation, their looks conveying approval of her elegant yet bold and sexy ensemble that could bring Bhargav to his knees. They further enhanced her bridal look with jasmine garlands and shimmering diamond jewelry, each piece adding to her radiance and underscoring the night's special aura.

Radha, taking a seat on the bed, gestured for Sanju to join her. "Sanju," she began, her voice soft yet earnest, "I understand you might feel uneasy in this attire. Remember, each of us—your grandmother, myself, and Ragini—have stood where you are. Marriage is about unity; it's about sharing every aspect of your being with your partner. Consider how Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati embody the perfect union, balancing each other as one. Tonight is a significant step towards that unity. Embrace whatever comes, keeping an open heart to Bhargav's words and actions. However, it's equally important to voice your feelings if you're uneasy or disagree with anything. Your comfort and consent are paramount." Radha's words echoed Ragini's earlier advice, leaving Sanju curious and slightly apprehensive about the night's expectations. She nodded in agreement, quietly assuring, "Okay, amma, I'll stay open to our interactions tonight." With those parting words of wisdom, the ladies handed Sanju a glass of milk before leading her to the bridal chamber upstairs, marking the beginning of her new journey.

Room: Just imagine jasmine and roses covering the entire bed with Just Married written on it.

Upon entering the room, Sanju was utterly astonished. The concept of such a vast and luxuriously appointed space was beyond her imagination. The room was adorned with a delicate arrangement of jasmine and rose petals spread across the bed, complemented by twinkling fairy lights and candles that cast a soft, enchanting glow across the floor, walls, and the expansive windows. Grateful for the subdued lighting that discreetly obscured her revealing attire, Sanju had wrapped her saree's pallu around herself for modesty. The deep-cut blouse and its lack of sleeves made her self-conscious about the exposed cleavage and back. A nearby table was laden with an assortment of sweets, fruits, and snacks. Radha instructed her, "When Bhargav arrives, offer him this glass of milk. After he drinks half, you should finish the rest." With these final words of guidance, the ladies left the room wishing her good luck, leaving Sanju to anticipate the night ahead with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

Bhargav's POV:

Bhargav retreated to the solace of a guest bedroom, the first moment of solitude he had found all day amidst the whirlwind of wedding festivities. As he freshened up, his mind wandered, caught in a tempest of conflicting emotions and thoughts. He found himself unexpectedly struggling with a very strong physical attraction towards Sanju, his new wife, a sensation that surprised him. Given their significant age difference he had not expected that.He stood before the mirror, adjusting his attire, while his reflections mirrored the turmoil within. Bhargav couldn't shake off the allure he felt towards her, her shy glances and delicate presence igniting a spark he hadn't anticipated. Yet, alongside this budding attraction, lingered a shadow of doubt. Was the innocence he saw in her eyes genuine, or was it a facade masking a gold digger's intentions? The circumstances that had led to their marriage—a union arranged hastily and shrouded in convenience—only fueled his skepticism.

The duality of his thoughts tormented him. On one hand, there was this undeniable pull towards her, a connection he felt every time their eyes met or their hands touched, however briefly. On the other hand, his mind replayed every warning, every piece of advice about the perils of marrying someone whose past and intentions were not entirely clear to him.

Bhargav's Reflection: "She's young, innocent-looking. But can I trust that innocence?"Bhargav: "Attraction isn't rational. But it's there, undeniable. Why her? There's such a huge age gap, a world of difference between us in every aspect."Bhargav's Reflection: "Is it just her eyes? That shy glance that seems to pierce right through all my skepticism?"Bhargav: "The ceremony... her hand in mine felt right as if we were meant to be. But is this just a facade? A gold digger behind those innocent eyes?"Bhargav's Reflection: "Remember why you're here. It's not just about what you feel. It's about what's real."Bhargav: "But those moments, her vulnerability, her tears... They can't all be an act. Can they?"Bhargav's Reflection: "Caution, Bhargav. Your heart wants to leap, but your mind knows the fall could be steep."Bhargav: "I need to watch, wait, and see. Time will tell if she's truly the one for me. The last thing I want is to let misplaced trust lead to bitterness or betrayal. Been there, done that."

As Bhargav finished getting ready, he took a deep breath, attempting to steel himself for the evening ahead. The night was young, and so was their journey together. Whether Sanju was the innocent soul her eyes suggested or a gold digger, as circumstances implied, only time would reveal. For now, Bhargav decided to keep an open mind, vowing to himself that he would watch, wait, and learn. The path ahead was uncertain, but he was ready to face whatever came, armed with a cautious heart and a vigilant eye.